Following Westlife’s reunion last month, Keith Duffy has insisted they haven’t had to work as hard in their career as Boyzone did.
Earlier in the month, Keith spoke out about how Westlife got their start as Boyzone’s support act and in an attempt to justify his comments, said he was simply recalling their past.
Speaking to the Irish Mirror, he said, “There was no dig, that’s just fact. It took us a long time to earn our place in the business.
“Then Westlife were put together by Louis [Walsh] and were given the support slot on an arena tour.
“So they were put on the big stage and didn’t have to do the work Boyzone did. But we happily paved the way for bands coming after us.”
The Dubliner also believes it was very unfair of them not to take Brian McFadden back for the 20th Anniversary Tour.
“I think it would have shown great solidarity and great wisdom so I think it is unfortunate the boys decided not to go forward with Brian,” he said.
At their Dublin press conference earlier this week, Kian, Nicky, Shane and Mark admitted the admitted it wouldn’t feel right to have him back after so many years.
“The way we look at it we finished the band as a four-piece, we were together for over eight years after he left, so a lot longer than when we were with Brian,” Shane Filan explained.
“He decided to leave the band in 2004 so for us we were always a four piece after that. Brian left the band fifteen years ago y’know,” he added.
Mark Feehily also added that it just feels right as a foursome.
“I don’t think we feel like anybody’s missing here today. And that’s not in any bad way, that’s just what Westlife is to us now.”
Following the announcement of their reunion, Brian took to social media to prove there are no hard feelings.
“Wishing the boys the best of luck with the tour. 20 years at the top is an incredible achievement.
“I had a wonderful six years with the boys but I have nothing but admiration for the lads working their asses off for so long.
“Long may it continue boys. Flying the flag.”